This blog was created for Niles Animal Hospital & Bird Medical Center by Peter S. Sakas DVM in an effort to provide information & discussion about animal related issues. It may move into some eccentric directions on occasion if the mood strikes me as I get more comfortable in this form of communication. I am open to suggestions & comments about the blog. Also view our hospital website www.nilesanimalhospital.com or Facebook page Niles Animal Hospital and Bird Medical Center.

Wednesday, June 25, 2014

Actually I should entitle this the danger of believing everything you read on the internet!

The Rumor Of Ice Water & Dogs

An old Internet rumor resurfaces and has dog owners wondering: Is ice
bad for dogs?

From VeterinaryPracticeNews.com

Photo from National Weather StationWe
We have been getting a lot of questions from clients and friends asking if
ice water is lethal to dogs? It’s a rumor that’s circulating the
Internet and worrying dog owners.

The cautionary tale (titled "NO ICE WATER FOR DOGS...PLEASE READ ASAP”)
was written in 2010, but the rumor has been circulating since 2007. It
centers on a dog named Baran, and his owner who unthinkingly added ice
cubes to the dog’s water bowl to help him cool off on a hot day. Shortly
after, Baran appears to be in distress and is rushed to the animal
hospital. The veterinarian tells the owner that the ice water caused the
dog to experience violent muscle spasms in his stomach, which led to
bloating. Bloat — also known as gastric dilation-volvulus—is a
life-threatening condition in dogs.

Dogs can bloat after eating or drinking too fast in general,
regardless of the temperature of the water or whether or not the water
contains ice cubes. When a dog is hot and thirsty, he very likely might
drink the water too fast -- and swallow lots of air in the process --
which can be a recipe for bloat. When a dog’s stomach bloats, it twists
and traps air, gas and food, cutting off the blood supply to the stomach
and nearby organs. The dog’s stomach then becomes distended, and
without immediate help, the dog can suffer from shock or organ failure,
or even die.

Here are the dangers of ice, heat stroke and bloating.

Ice
Although eating ice technically is safe for dogs, eating ice can pose a few dangers. Dogs that munch on ice can
potentially damage or break their teeth, or the ice could possibly
become lodged in the dog’s throat. Supervision is required whenever ice
is given to a dog.

Heat Stroke In DogsTips on how to treat heat stroke in dogs.

• If a dog becomes overheated, it's important to cool your dog off gradually

• Dog owners should initially use a wet towel to cool off any dog
suspected of heat stroke or overheating, and then gently mist them off
(do not spray them or submerse them in water)

• A fan can be used to help increase evaporative cooling, and the dog can lay on a cool floor surface.

• Once the body temperature is gradually reduced to 103 F, further
cooling efforts are not necessary. If a dog is cooled off too quickly,
they can go into shock and organ failure.

Bloat In Dogs
While the cause is unknown, rapid eating, eating only one large meal
daily, a dry-food-only diet, overeating, over-drinking, heavy exercise
right after eating, a fearful temperament, stress, trauma and abnormal
gastric mobility are all risk factors.

It is best to feed several small meals per day, don’t let your
dog drink lots of water all at once, and restrict heavy exercise for
about an hour after mealtimes.

North Shore Mosquitoes Test Positive for West Nile Virus

Mosquitoes collected in traps in Northbrook and Kenilworth
have tested positive for West Nile Virus, according to the North Shore
Mosquito Abatement District (NSMAD). The mosquitoes were collected June
18. Mosquitoes in Skokie have also previously tested positive.

According to the NSMAD:“West
Nile virus can be transmitted to humans via the bite of an infected
mosquito. Mild cases of WNV may cause a slight fever or headache. More
severe infections are marked by a rapid onset of a high fever with head
and body aches, disorientation, tremors, convulsions and, in the most
severe cases, paralysis or death. Symptoms typically occur within three
to 14 days after the bite from an infected mosquito. Persons 50 years of
age or older are at the highest risk for serious illness.The
NSMAD recommends that residents take personal protection measures to
minimize mosquito bites including: the use of insect repellent on
exposed skin, wearing light colored, loose fitting clothing and avoiding
peak mosquito feeding times during the hours around dawn and dusk.
Residents are urged to examine their property and eliminate any items
that can hold water, particularly smaller items that may be easily
overlooked. Remember, if it can hold water, it can breed mosquitoes.

Monday, June 16, 2014

Assess Your Dog's risk factors

Assessing the risk for your dog to get
Lyme disease is a combination of where you live, your dog's lifestyle
and his overall health. While many dogs are at risk in their own
backyards because of where they live, others may have hunting or travel
lifestyles that put them at risk. Understanding the risk in your local
area is important.

The breed of your dog is not an
important risk factor. Big or small, couch potato or hunting dog, any
dog can be at risk. Whenever and wherever dogs come in close contact
with ticks - usually wildlife areas where mice and deer live - the risk
of exposure to Lyme disease is great.

The two largest risk factors for contracting Lyme disease are:

Exposure to infected ticks.

Vaccination status.

Know the facts

- Nearly 75 percent of unvaccinated
dogs in endemic areas will eventually test positive, and each year some
will develop Lyme disease.3 - Three-quarters of human cases in endemic areas are contracted during activities around the home.3
- If you find a tick attached to your dog, call your veterinarian.
Canine Lyme disease can be treated with antibiotics, particularly if
caught early. Your veterinarian will determine the best course of care. - Canine Lyme disease is largely preventable by vaccination, and by using tick control and frequent tick checks. Remember that Ixodes ticks are small and hard to find in a dog's coat. - If you suspect your dog might be at risk, ask your veterinarian about options for vaccinating your dog for Lyme disease.

ALMOST ALL DOGS SPEND ENOUGH TIME OUTSIDE TO BE EXPOSED TO TICKS

How do dogs get lyme disease?

From the bite of an infected Ixodes called "the deer tick"

- The tick must be infected with a specific bacteria called Borrelia burgdorferi for your dog to get canine Lyme disease.

- This bacteria is what actualy causes canine Lyme disease - the tick is just the transmitter or "vector" for the bacteria.

- Dogs don't get Lyme disease from other dogs or people.

- Dogs can get Lyme disease anywhere there are infected ticks, such as wildlife areas or their own backyards.

- Your dog is at higher risk for getting Lyme disease if he lives in an area with a high incendence of human Lyme disease.

Friday, June 13, 2014

I came across this heart wrenching poem written from the perspective of an elderly pet in a shelter. It is sure to bring a tear to your eye.

Consider adoption of one of these poor unfortunate pets who have ended up in a shelter through no fault of their own. They deserve a loving home. Yes, puppies are wonderful, but do not overlook these older pets, they need your love as well.

ONE BY ONE ...

One by One, they pass by my cage, Too old, too worn, too broken, no way. Way past his time, he can't run and play. Then they shake their heads slowly and go on their way.

A little old man, arthritic and sore, It seems I am not wanted anymore. I once had a home, I once had a bed, A place that was warm, and where I was fed. Now my muzzle is gray, and my eyes slowly fail. Who wants a dog so old and so frail?

My family decided I didn't belong, I got in their way, my attitude was wrong. Whatever excuse they made in their head, Can't justify how they left me for dead. Now I sit in this cage, where day after day, The younger dogs get adopted away.

When I had almost come to the end of my rope, You saw my face, and I finally had hope. You saw thru the gray, and the legs bent with age, And felt I still had life beyond this cage. You took me home, gave me food and a bed, And shared your own pillow with my poor tired head.

We snuggle and play, and you talk to me low, You love me so dearly, you want me to know. I may have lived most of my life with another, But you outshine them with a love so much stronger. And I promise to return all the love I can give, To you, my dear person, as long as I live.

I may be with you for a week, or for years, We will share many smiles, you will no doubt shed tears. And when the time comes that God deems I must leave, I know you will cry and your heart, it will grieve. And when I arrive at the Bridge, all brand new, My thoughts and my heart will still be with you. And I will brag to all who will hear, Of the person who made my last days so dear.

Wednesday, June 11, 2014

Three Ways to Help Pets Cope With Fear of Storms

By Michael Kuhne, AccuWeather.com Staff Writer

June 09, 2014; 4:48 AM

The loud roar of passing thunderstorms and other loud
noises can spark fear in many animals, causing extreme anxiety not only
for pets, but also their owners who must manage this stress.

In order to help animals cope with these phobias, pet owners can look
for different solutions with the help of their veterinarians. According
to Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Lauren Connolly, there are several
techniques to calm an animal during a thunderstorm.

"Being afraid of thunderstorms is just a form of noise phobia," she
said, adding that symptoms from dogs are often more noticeable than
those exhibited by cats.

"(Cats) can also be afraid of loud noises and storms," Connolly said.
"They often will go and hide under a bed or behind a couch. Because
they are not as destructive as dogs, their fear often goes unnoticed."(Photo/Sean Waugh NOAA/NSSL)

1. Calming Methods

Connolly said that techniques such as calming the animal by petting them or simply sitting with them may reduce anxiety.

Also, allowing a pet to have a "safe" quiet place where they can go and be undisturbed can be used.
Try to block out the lightning and play loud music to block out the
noise if possible, she said, adding that a white noise may help.

Playing a game or distracting the animal with a favorite toy can also put them at ease, she said.
In some cases, a veterinarian may prescribe anti-anxiety medications such as Alprazolam that can be administered before a storm.

2. Conditioning and Behavior Modification

Other methods of reducing anxiety during storms may include conditioning a pet to not fear the sound.

"You can play recordings of storms and play them at a sound level
just below where they will get scared," Connolly said. "They should be
played in short, 3- to 5-minute intervals and no longer."

A concerned dog parent should work with their veterinarian to develop
a safe and effective conditioning program, according to Connolly.

"Behavior modification is the best way to get your dog desensitized
to storms," Connolly said. "It is important to not punish your dog
during this time, they will just get more stressed."

Connolly said it is also important never to praise them and tell them it is "OK."

"By rewarding this behavior you can inadvertently encourage it," she said.

Clancy wears his Thundershirt to comfort him from a storm. (Photo/ Kristen Connolly)

3. Stress Relief Gear

Out of necessity, ThunderWorks.com CEO and Founder Phil Blizzard said
his business was started after trying various methods of calming his
own dog during thunderstorms.

"She's been afraid of thunder and fireworks," Blizzard said. "Anytime we had a thunderstorm, she would pant and shake."

In the middle of the night during a storm, Blizzard said his dog
would often awaken him by climbing on top of him while he was in bed.

When methods recommended by the veterinarian didn't work, Blizzard
and his wife started looking for another solution to alleviate her fear,
which motivated the creation of the ThunderShirt.

"Someone had suggested a snug wrap, like swaddling, which applies a
gentle, constant pressure," he said, adding that this concept is to
provide stress release for animals and humans alike.A dalmatian wears a Thundershirt. (Credit: Flickr/Maja Dumat)

During Blizzard's research, he said they found that more than 30
percent of pet owners reported similar anxiety in their animals during
thunderstorms.

"As the name ThunderShirt implies, thunder and noises was the first
fear we tackled, but along the way, we found that simple pressure helped
with a multitude of pet anxieties including separation, travel, vet
visits and much more," according to the ThunderShirt website.

In 2008, with the help of partners and veterinary and trainer
endorsements, Blizzard launched his website to sell the ThunderShirt. He
now employees 25 people.

Connolly said similar products that apply this method of constant,
gentle pressure seem to help some animals, but are not clinically
proven. Since Blizzard started his business, he has received
endorsements from several thousand trainers, veterinarians, rescue groups and pet owners.

"It is like a swaddle for a baby and did nothing for my dog, but I know others who have used it and loved it," she said.

Other products include a special lining to decrease animals' sensitivity to the static charge associated with storms, she said.

Monday, June 9, 2014

Lyme disease is a risk for both humans and their pets. As it is carried by ticks, it is important to use an effective flea/tick preventative on a regular basis. If your pet spends any time in areas which have the potential for the presence of ticks it is prudent for extra protection to have them receive the Lyme vaccination as well.

This is an article specifically referring to the human side of the disease, as we are also at risk of developing the disease. In fact, I have known a number of people who have had Lyme disease. It is good to be familiar with the symptoms for people (as well as pets) as the disease is spreading.

Although most people associate deer ticks with deer, they hitch rides on a wide range of small animals including
white-footed mice, chipmunks, shrews, prairie dogs, birds, squirrels,
raccoons, opossums and skunks, that can bring them right into your
backyard. Even birds have been found to carry deer ticks as far north as the Yukon in Canada.

Yet many people treated for Lyme disease have symptoms that persist or appear after antibiotics are finished. A study from Johns Hopkins University
found that six months after Lyme treatment, 36 percent of patients
reported new-onset fatigue, 20 percent reported widespread pain, and 45
percent had neurocognitive difficulties. These baffling post-treatment
symptoms were associated with a significant impairment of life
functioning. Post-treatment Lyme symptoms are common and represent a
major public health problem.

Great controversy surrounds the
causes of these chronic symptoms. In treating patients with Lyme disease
and chronic symptoms, I have found several causes, each of which is
supported by scientific studies and each of which must be looked for and
treated for full recovery to occur. These include:Co-infection.
The ticks that spread Lyme disease may transmit other bacterial or
parasitic infections that require their own specific treatments.
Treatment of Bb alone may be insufficient to produce a cure.Bacterial persistence.
Lyme bacteria have evolved ways to escape the effects of antibiotics and
evade the immune system. Special measures may be needed to overcome
persisting infection.Auto-immunedamage.
Lyme can trigger the immune system to attack the body's own tissues,
even when infection is gone. Restoring immune balance can be critical to
recovery. This is especially true when Lyme disease damages the nervous
system, but may also occur with Lyme arthritis.Antibiotic side effects.Treatment
of Lyme disease with antibiotics may have unintended consequences.
Yeast overgrowth is a well-known effect of antibiotics. A small study
from Germany found that almost three-quarters of patients with
persisting post-treatment symptoms became symptom-free after treatment
with the anti-yeast medication fluconazole. Strong antibiotics
may also damage the energy powerhouses in our bodies' cells, the
mitochondria, causing fatigue, muscular weakness or brain disturbances.
Nutritional treatments that protect mitochondria or restore
mitochondrial function may be needed for a return to health.Central sensitization,
an alteration of brain function producing pain in parts of the body
that are not actually damaged. Healing of the brain with medication,
nutritional therapies or mind-body therapies may help.

In
conclusion, Lyme disease is a major threat to public health and a
growing source of chronic illness. For many people, recovery from Lyme
disease requires a multifaceted treatment approach that impacts on all
aspects of the Lyme problem, individualized to the needs of each person.

Thursday, June 5, 2014

Maker of powerful rat poison will cease production in July

Kian
Schulman, an advocate against using anticoagulant rodenticides (rat
poisons), checks the label on a rat trap by a business in Malibu. (Anne
Cusack / Los Angeles Times)

Maker agrees to stop producing harmful rat poison for consumer market. Powerful rat poison to be replaced has accidentally harmed children and animals.'This is a significant victory for environmental protection,' attorney says of rat poison halt.

After
years of battling federal environmental officials, the maker of d-CON
has agreed to stop producing for the consumer market certain rat poisons
that have accidentally harmed children, wildlife and pets.

The
company's rodent-control products will be replaced next year with a new
line of baits the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has approved for
use in every state. Environmental activists hailed the agreement announced Friday.

"This
is a significant victory for environmental protection and corporate
responsibility," said Jonathan Evans of the Center for Biological
Diversity in San Francisco. "While the fight isn't over until all of
these hazardous products are off the market, this decision keeps the
worst of the worst products from residential consumers."

The poisons will still be available for use in agriculture and by licensed pest-control operators.
The
rat poisons that Reckitt Benckiser Group has agreed to discontinue
contain "second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides." These are more
toxic and persistent than the previous generation of products.

The
poisons are designed to kill rodents by thinning the blood and
preventing clotting.

Scientists say the products have for years wreaked havoc by working their way up the food chain.

The
state of California took sweeping action in March, when the Department
of Pesticide Regulation signaled plans to halt retail sales of
second-generation rat poisons to consumers after July 1. Reckitt
Benckiser, the maker of d-CON, lost its bid to stop the ban.

Kian
Schulman, secretary of the Malibu Agricultural Society, points out that
dumpsters where the lid is not closed attracts rodents. The maker of a
powerful, and harmful, rodent pesticide has agreed to stop consumer
production. (Anne Cusack / Los Angeles Times)

The
department said the national agreement would not affect the state's
action, and it urged stores to continue the process of removing the
products from shelves.

Some activists credited California's action with inducing the company to give in.

"California
is a huge market," said Greg Loarie, an attorney with Earthjustice, a
public interest environmental law firm in San Francisco. With the July 1
deadline looming, he added, "I suspect [Reckitt Benckiser] took a look
around and saw the writing on the wall."Reckitt
Benckiser is one of 17 manufacturers of rodent poisons, but it is the
only one that had not altered its packaging and ingredients to comply
with federal safety standards.

During nearly two decades of
research in and around the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation
Area, National Park Service scientists have documented widespread
exposure in carnivores to common household poisons. Of 140 bobcats,
coyotes and mountain lions evaluated, 88% tested positive for one or
more anticoagulant compounds. Scores of animals are known to have died
from internal bleeding, researchers said.

The
poisons also affect protected or endangered species, including golden
eagles, northern spotted owls and San Joaquin kit foxes.

Among
heavy users of the poisons are growers of illegal marijuana throughout
California. Scientists have linked rat poisons to the deaths of Pacific
fishers, which are small carnivores, that had eaten rodents poisoned by
illegal pot growers.

Under the agreement, Reckitt Benckiser will
begin to phase out production of 12 d-CON rat and mouse poison products
next month and will stop production by year-end. The company will cease
distribution of existing stocks by March 31, 2015. Retailers will be
allowed to keep the products on shelves until stocks are depleted.martha.groves@latimes.com